The silicate of soda (water-glass) is used like the analogous salt of potash. Bandages soaked in the fluid harden into a light firm support in twenty-four to forty-eight hours.

Therapeutical Action (Internal)

Comparing soda with potash, we find the former more indicated in disorders of the stomach, the primae viae, and the liver, while the latter, acting better as a diuretic and a solvent of uric acid, is more appropriate in renal congestions and lithiuria.

1 Soda salts are, by some practitioners. given internally for rheumatism, like potash (v. p. 279): the use of the salicylate will be discussed under salicylic acid.